*JK IMPARD and Forest Department Collaborate for Capacity building on Sustainable Development*
Srinagar, J&K – A collaborative five-day training program centered on sustainable development at the Gram Panchayat level, jointly conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Institute of Management, Public Administration and Rural Development (JK IMPARD) and the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department, has successfully concluded in Srinagar. The intensive program aimed to equip Forest Officers and officials with enhanced knowledge and skills to integrate sustainable principles into local governance and development planning.
The training curriculum covered a range of pertinent topics, including natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, and the importance of community participation.
A key highlight of the program was an expert lecture delivered by the Conservator of Forests, North Forest Circle, Mr. Irfan Ali Shah(IFS). Mr. Shah provided a comprehensive overview of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasizing their relevance to the specific context of Jammu and Kashmir and highlighting the crucial role of the Forest Department in achieving these goals at the Gram Panchayat level through environmentally sound and informed practices.
Ms Shafia Wani, Faculty and Training coordinator at JKIMPARD said, “This joint initiative between JK IMPARD and the Forest Department represents a significant step towards building the capacity of frontline forestry professionals for furthering the cause of sustainable and resilient development across the Gram Panchayats of Jammu and Kashmir”
The program witnessed enthusiastic participation from Forest Officers and officials, underscoring the department’s commitment to promoting sustainable development at the grassroots level.
